Colin Powell: First Black US Secretary of State Dies From COVID-19 Complications

• The family of Colin L. Powell, the first Black US secretary of state, has announced that the statesman succumbed to COVID-19 complications aged 84
• Powell was a staunch Republican, but supported Democrat Barack Obama for US presidency in 2008, something that went a long way in adding his appeal
• He is survived by his wife Alma Vivian Powell, whom he married in 1962, and three children

General Colin L. Powell, the first Black US secretary of state has succumbed to COVID-19 complications aged 84.

In a post shared on Facebook, Powell's family revealed that the statesman lost his life to the virus despite being fully vaccinated.

"We have lost a remarkable and loving husband, father, grandfather and a great American," read part of the statement, as reported by CNN.

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Powell was a powerful leader and Republican administrator who was centerstage in helping shape America's foreign policy during the late 20th and early 21st centuries.

Revered leader and statesman

His entry into leadership started with the military when he was sent out to Vietnam as a soldier on combat duty.

This was followed by him becoming the first Black national security adviser for Ronald Reagan's presidency, as well as the youngest African-American chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff during the reign of president George Bush.

Powell's popularity took off during the Gulf War after being on the forefront in leading the US to a coalition victory, something that made many see in him the potential for being the first Black President of the United States.

The rise would, however, take a dip when, as George W. Bush's first secretary of state, he advocated for the Iraqi War based on faulty intelligence at a United Nations gathering.

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He never showed interest in the US presidency after that, but still became the highest-ranking Black public official in 2001 when he was sworn in as Bush's secretary of state.

Endorsed Obama's candidacy

Despite having been a staunch Republican, Powell shifted camps and threw his weight behind Democrats, most notable being his 2008 endorsement of Barack Obama, America's first Black president.

While announcing his support, he cited Obama's "ability to inspire" as well as the "inclusive nature of his campaign"

Powell's support for Obama was seen as a significant boost for the former president's candidacy given his widespread appeal and position as one of the most revered Black Americans in leadership.

Powell leaves behind three children and one wife, Alma Vivian Powell, whom he married in 1962.

Source: YEN.com.gh